The remains of a North Louisiana Korean War vet are being returned home after 68 years. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

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The Louisiana Department of Corrections is rolling back a policy that allowed state prisons to bar inmates from talking to the media. Michael Farrar has more.

Cut 2 (30) I’m Michael Farrar

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The House passed a budget that maintains higher ed spending, and funds TOPS at 80 percent, but slashes healthcare. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A ceremony is being held today for a Korean War Veteran from Faraday whose remains are being returned home after 68 years. 19-year-old Sergeant Lester Walker was deployed to Korea with an anti-air craft weapons battalion. Congressman Ralph Abraham says he was lost during the first months of the war.

Cut 4  (11) “M-I-A” 

36,914 American Servicemen and women were lost in the conflict that is often referred to as the “Forgotten War”, due its lack of recognition. Abraham says those sacrifices need to be remembered.

Cut 5  (07)  “of life”

2.5 million people are suspected to have lost their lives during the three year war.

Abraham says hundreds lined the runway as Walker was returned home, in a show of solidarity with all gold star families. Abraham says it’s been cathartic for the north Louisiana community.

Cut 6 (08) “situation.”

An armistice was signed in 1953, but the war is technically still ongoing.

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A seven year old policy barring inmates from talking to the media about their cases has been lifted by the Louisiana Department of Corrections after a challenge from the ACLU. ACLU Staff Attorney Bruce Hamilton says the gag order was a gross violation of inmates civil rights.

Cut 7 (09)  “constitutional rights”

The suit was brought on behalf of Darold Hines, an Angola Inmate, who was denied the right to speak to LSU reporters who were investigating his case. Hamilton says just because they are prisoners, doesn’t mean they don’t have rights.

Cut 8 (08)  “as well.”

Hamilton says the justice system isn’t perfect, which is why inmates need the right to tell their stories to the media.

Cut 9 (06)  “of committing”

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The House narrowly passed a budget that would fund TOPS at 80% and maintain higher ed funding, but would implement deep cuts in healthcare funding, potentially ending public-private partnership hospitals that care for the poor. House Appropriations Chairman Republican Cameron Henry says the state cannot afford to maintain its current healthcare spending.

Cut 10 (08) “attain it”

The proposed spending plan goes to the Senate Finance Committee who will meet Sunday. It’s possible the Senate may not even vote on a budget.

House GOP Chairman Lance Harris says the budget is the best they could do with the funds they have available.

Cut 11 (11) “projected today”

House Democrats nearly unanimously voted against the budget. New Orleans Representative Gary Carter says if passed, the spending plan would kill people.

Cut 12 (09) “currently have”

House Democratic Chairman Robert Johnson went after legislators who voted yea on the proposed budget.

Cut 13 (12)  “we do”

Governor John Bel Edwards has announced that if the spending plan reaches his desk, he will not sign it, and reports indicate that legislators are planning on beginning a special session mid-May to attempt to pass a budget that replaces the 663 million dollars in funds that are not present in this spending plan.

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Governor John Bel Edwards says the proposed budget that was approved by the House is a non-starter, and if it reaches his desk, he’s not signing it. The budget maintains higher ed, and funds TOPS at 80 percent, but includes steep cuts to healthcare that could shutter public-private hospitals that care for the poor. Edwards says it’s a budget unworthy of the people of Louisiana.

Hess says there are several factors on why they haven’t played well on the road…

Cut 20 (17) “go around”

The State Fire Marshal’s office arrests a Richland Parish volunteer firefighter, who allegedly set his home on fire, injuring his 53-year-old medically disabled wife. Jim Shannon has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jim Shannon”

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An NFL legend is putting his name, and voice behind a new distracted driving campaign. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Governor John Bel Edwards is working to find ways to equip every school with a school resource officer. He says the vast majority of schools already have them but not all. Edwards made the comments during his monthly radio show, “ask the governor.”

Cut 3 (:12) “recurring training”

The governor adds each officer should have uniformed training.

Cut 4 (:11) “and equipped”

He says he’s saddened by the situation today’s schools are in.

Cut 5  (10) “about this”

A task force has been assembled to study the issue.

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The State Fire Marshal has arrested a volunteer firefighter in Richland Parish in connection with a mobile home fire that injured his medically disabled wife. Kenneth Fulford was booked into parish prison on multiple offenses. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue.

Cut 6 (:13)  “on her own”

Fulford was additionally charged with Aggravated Cruelty to animals.

Cut 7 (10)  “set the fire”

Fulford is also a Richland Parish volunteer fire-fighter himself. Rodrigue says it’s unfortunate one of their own was charged, but that’s the way it iss.

Cut 8 (:06) “is affected..”

More charges maybe pending.

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The state House approves legislation that supporters say will help the Cajun Navy and other volunteer groups have a greater impact during a disaster. Denham Springs Representative Valarie Hodges says her family was helped by volunteers after the 2016 flood. She says the legislation gives the Cajun Navy access to state equipment and training…

Cut 9 (:07) “Volunteer organizations “

But New Iberia Representative Terry Landry, the former head of State Police, is skeptical about bringing volunteers into a disaster situation.

Cut 10 (:11) “is in charge.”

Hodges says she met with just about every member of the emergency community when she drafted bill, including the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness…

Cut 11 (:12) “the United States.”

The bill now moves to the Senate.

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Brett Favre is stepping up to be the voice of a distracted driving campaign in Louisiana. The Hall of Fame Quarterback will be featured in a new PSA speaking out against dangerous behavior behind the wheel that was responsible for the deaths of more than 700 Louisianans in 2016. Favre is using his NFL experience to make an impact.

Cut 12 (09)   “someones life”

Property Casualty Insurance Vice President of State Government Relations Joe Woods worked with Favre to bring the PSA to life. He says his organization is pushing to increase penalties for drivers who use their phone while driving, but laws alone won’t save lives.

Cut 13 (08) “listen to.”

Woods says the advent of smart phones has led to a drastic increase in distracted driving fatalities.

Cut 14 (12)  “our cars”

The state legislative auditor has completed an audit on sexual harassment in state government and concludes the state should do a better job of educating its workers. Jeff Palermo has more

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A bill that would allow companies like Uber to operate across the state passed the House on a resounding 97-1 vote. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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The Pelicans return to New Orleans with a two games to nothing series lead over Portland after a 111 to 102 victory last night. Jrue Holiday scored a career playoff-high 33 points. And on the defensive end, Holiday held Damian Lillard to 17 points. Head Coach Alvin Gentry says Holiday has been playing at a high level for awhile…

Cut 3 (10) “tonight”

A modest Holiday says he’s just doing what his teammates expect out of him…

Cut 4 (09) “right now”

Game 3 is Thursday night at the Smoothie King Center. The Pels are just the seventh team in NBA history to win the first two games of an opening round playoff series on the road. Gentry says they still have to get two more wins to advance to the next round…

Cut 5  (10) “go off”

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The full House has approved legislation that gives residents a chance to vote on whether fantasy sports betting should be legal in their parish. The bill’s author, River Ridge Representative Kirk Talbot, explained to the rest of the House how the fantasy sports games work…

Cut 6 (06)  “to play”

Currently, fantasy sports websites like Draft Kings and Fan Duel do not allow Louisiana residents to play in their contests. Talbot says all his legislation does is legalize it in parishes, if it’s approved by a majority of residents in November…

Cut 7 (10)  “regulate it”

The measure still needs Senate approval.

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The state’s legislative auditor has completed a sexual harassment survey of thousands of state workers and concluded that the state should do a better job of educating its workers on the issue. Auditor Daryl Purpera says the state spent more than five million dollars on sexual harassment claims over the past 9 years. He says there is no clear cut process on what to do.

Cut 8 (:12) “those claims.”

The audit was triggered by the resignation of one of Governor John Bel Edwards top aide’s over accusations of sexual harassment. Purpera adds without a standard procedure the issue may continue.

Cut 9 (10) “that report”

Purpera admits the state’s employee base is very diverse and a sexual harassment policy would have to be custom fit for some of the different agencies.

Cut 10 (:09) “should have.”

The audit findings largely came from the Office of Risk Management.

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On a 97-1 vote, the House passed legislation that would permit companies like Uber to operate across the state, without needing to make local agreements. The bill, by Speaker Taylor Barras, would bring Louisiana in line with the vast majority of other states’ rideshare regulations. Barras says it’s a big benefit with a small price tag.

Cut 11 (07) “in workforce.”

Shreveport Representative Barbara Norton said her mind was changed after talking to her son about the benefits of the service for people who don’t own a vehicle….

Cut 12 (10)   “to win”

Shreveport Representative Cedric Glover was the one dissenting vote. He expressed concerns that the background check system used to clear Uber drivers was not reliable.

Cut 13 (11) “law enforcement agencies.”

The bill moves onto the Senate

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The Democratic Caucus is pushing back against a budget that will be discussed tomorrow on the House Floor that includes 648 million dollars in cuts to higher education and healthcare. Caucus Chairman Robert Johnson says the budget discriminates against Democratic constituencies, while funding projects in Republican areas of the state.

Cut 14 (09)  “that’s immoral”

The caucus is also pushing back against part of the budget that fully funds TOPS, but cuts the higher education budget.

Johnson says Republicans aren’t properly considering, and explaining just how damaging these cuts would be to Louisianans.

Cut 15 (11) “of cuts.”

Baton Rouge Representative Democrat Patricia Smith says so far, the GOP have resisted any efforts to cut a bargain that would adequately fund state programs.

Cut 16  (10) “for cuts”

The caucus is calling on lawmakers to vote against the budget, and instead replace expiring revenues in a special session.

Sports betting is off the books for the foreseeable future in Louisiana. Don Molino has the story.

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Don Molino.”

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A Senate committee approves a bill that would ban abortions 15-weeks after conception, but its uncertain if it will get final legislative approval. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31) I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A bill that would make it illegal to hold and use your phone while driving was narrowly defeated in the House. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Sports betting will not be legal in Louisiana anytime soon as a push to allow parishes to vote on allowing it in casinos was shot down six to three in Senate Finance. Metairie Senator Danny Martiny, the bill’s sponsor, says if the US Supreme Court expands sports gaming nationwide, Louisiana could lose out on a lot of tourism to its neighbors.

Cut 4  (10) “we don’t.” 

Martiny says the opposition wasn’t interested in expanding gambling in the state.

Cut 5  (07)  “respect that”

Martiny says keeping sports gaming illegal in Louisiana isn’t going to keep Louisianans from placing bets on their favorite sports.

Cut 6 (11) “of it.”

The US Supreme Court could rule on allowing sports betting in all 50 states this spring.

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A Senate committee approves legislation that would prohibit abortions in Louisiana after 15 weeks from conception, but there are concerns the legislation could bring upon unintended consequences. Kaplan Senator Jonathan Perry urged the bill’s author to work on the language of the bill with an attorney, before bringing it up to the Senate floor

Cut 7 (07)  “it can hurt”

An attorney said if “Roe versus Wade” is overturned, this legislation could actually weaken Louisiana’s pro-life laws by allowing abortions within 15 weeks of pregnancy. But the bill’s author, Shreveport Senator John Milkovich, urged the committee to pass his legislation so its in place if the federal appeals court upholds Mississippi’s 15-week abortion ban

Cut 8 (05)  “after 15 weeks.”

Pro choice advocates were on hand to testify against the 15-week abortion ban. Amy Irvin of the New Orleans Abortion Fund says the legislation will cost the state thousands of dollars to defend

Cut 9 (07)  “costly litigation”

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A bill allowing judges to inform juries about whether or not a victim in a car crash was wearing a seat belt died in a Senate Committee. The bill was promoted as potentially leading to smaller settlements in some cases, which would drive insurance rates down. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt, the bill’s sponsor, says we should trust judges to make the right call.

Cut 10 (08) “a jury”

But the bill received opposition from Bossier City Senator Ryan Gatti, who says the bill punishes victims with lower settlements in crashes that weren’t their fault.

Cut 11 (06) “everyday thing”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon could not guarantee that insurance rates would go down as a result of the bill, and Gatti says it’s emblematic of problems with the bill as a whole.

Cut 12 (09) “be reduced”

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A bill to ban drivers from using their phone with their hands while on the road failed to pass the House floor after an, at times, contentious debate. The legislation by Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval was inspired by the traffic deaths of a constituent’s child. Huval says it’s a bill designed to save lives.

Cut 13 (12)  “they know”

On an 11-7 vote, a House committee killed Baton Rouge Representative Patricia Smith’s proposal to ban bump stocks on guns. Jim Shannon has more.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jim Shannon”

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The leaders at LSU’s medical schools railed against a proposed budget that’s heading to the House floor. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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If you are a parent, you may find it hard to feed your child if they are a picky eater. About one in four kids develop an eating problem. Most quickly outgrow the fast-food and junk food only phase, but a few need professional assistance. Ochsner Pediatrician Dr. Myriam Ortiz says don’t force them to eat what they don’t want to. It could be due to other issues…

Cut 3 (09) “appetite slump”

Ortiz says it’s important not to become frustrated with your child. She also warns against bribing your child. You could be training them in a way that is not conducive with what you are trying to accomplish…

Cut 4 (07) “certain behaviors.”

In some cases, Ortiz says if your child isn’t eating, there could be a bigger underlying problem…

Cut 5  (11) “with them.”

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A House committee killed Baton Rouge Representative Patricia Smith’s proposal to ban bump stocks on guns. Authorities say a bump stock was used to kill more than 50 people in Las Vegas last October by allowing semi-automatic guns to shoot rapid-fire. Smith says something like that can happen here too.

Cut 6 (11)  “are gathered”

Kyle Galotta, who opposes the bill, says the Las Vegas shooting should not mean the end of Bump Stocks.

Cut 7 (10)  “bad precedent”

NRA spokesperson Erin Luper says they oppose the state ban on bump stocks, because there is legislation pending in Washington to ban them nationwide.

Cut 8 (06) “looks like.”

The measure failed on an 11-7 vote.

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Chancellors of two LSU Health Sciences Centers delivered impassioned testimonies in front of the Senate Finance Committee, calling on legislators not to pass the proposed budget apporved by the House Appropriations Committee that they say would devastate healthcare. Shreveport Chancellor G.E. Ghalli says the proposed cuts are impossible to make.

Cut 9 (10) “to cut”

The budget will be discussed on the House floor Thursday.

New Orleans Chancellor Larry Hollier says the proposed spending plan cuts funding for the five statewide residency programs by 43 percent. He says those programs provide crucial services to the most vulnerable paitents.

Cut 10 (11) “care of.”

Both Chancellors called on the legislature to not pass a budget until the 648 million dollar fiscal cliff, which is the result of expiring revenue in July, is potentially replaced in a possible special session.

Hollier says this budget, heading to the House floor, would result in a mass exodus of medical professionals from the state, and the devastation of the residency program.

Cut 11 (07) “in workforce.”

House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry, who’s in favor of the proposed budget, released a statement saying “We’re trying to pass a responsible budget with the dollars we have available.”

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Congressman Clay Higgins campaign reports the former law enforcement officer has raised 218-thousand dollars during the first quarter of this year and has 211-thousand dollars on hand. Higgins had just 50-thousand dollars in the bank at the end of 2017. UL Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says Higgins finally has his campaign fundraising operation going

Cut 12 (10)   “to win”

Republican attorney Josh Guillory and Democrat Phillip Conner, a physician from Lake Charles, are two candidates raising money to challenge Higgins this fall. Cross says Higgins will need to raise a lot more…

Cut 13 (11) “try anything.”

Cross says Higgins didn’t raise a lot of money when he was elected in 2016, but he’ll need more cash this time around

Cut 14 (12)  “this time”

There is strong support from the public for two of Governor John Bel Edwards main policy issues. Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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The House Appropriations Committee is expected to send a proposed spending plan for next fiscal year to the full House today. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A Tulane study finds Mississippi River diversions will produce new land, but not at the rate to keep up with the rising sea level. Jeff Palermo has the more…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Tax day is tomorrow and a survey from offers.com finds  most Louisianans wait until the very end to file. Some 53 percent wait until the day before or the final day to file. Offers-dot-com’s Carson Yarbrough says most people don’t want to pay their taxes and some say they would go to extreme measures to avoid doing so…

Cut 4  (10) “paying taxes.” 

According to the I-R-S, the average person who qualifies for a refund will get over 31-hundred-dollars. Yarbrough says the Louisiana taxpayers they spoke with will put that money to good use…

Cut 5  (12)  “everyday expenses.”

Yarbrough says many taxpayers choose not to do their own taxes…

Cut 6 (12) “squared away.”

Filing date for state income tax returns is May 15.

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An LSU Public Policy Research Lab survey finds a majority of Louisiana residents support two of Governor John Bel Edwards’ major policy issues – criminal justice reform and Medicaid expansion. Of those surveyed, 61-percent say they support the sweeping changes made last year. LSU’s Dr. Mike Henderson says there seems to be support on changing the state’s sentencing laws, because over half of the respondents believe the system is not fair, especially African-Americans…

Cut 7 (07)  “this year.”

69-percent of the respondents approve of Medicaid expansion, which took effect in June of 2016. Some 430-thousand Louisiana residents enrolled in the government funded health insurance. Henderson says those polled aren’t concerned about the  costs…

Cut 8 (11)  “attractive idea.”

Henderson says since the approval ratings are high on these two major policy changes, it could help the governor get re-elected…

Cut 9 (07)  “of that.”

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The House Appropriations Committee is expected to approve a budget today for next fiscal year that will contain 648-million dollars in cuts from the current fiscal year. When the budget process started, lawmakers had a nearly billion dollar budget deficit, but an increase in tax collections has led to a much smaller fiscal cliff. Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry says his committee wants to use that newly recognized revenue for TOPS

Cut 10 (10) “of TOPS”

Henry says providing more money for district attorneys is another top priority for the committee. He says they also want to adequately fund the state’s waiver program, which provides assistance for those who are disabled. But the state health department and all state agencies can anticipate a cut in funding

Cut 11 (09) “we are”

Governor Edwards is pushing the legislature to end the regular session early, so a special session can begin in May to approve tax bills that can lead to more revenue and reduce the budget gap. Henry says it’s too early to tell whether the House believes another special session is needed

Cut 12 (08) “is generated”

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State officials have talked about spending billions of dollars on redirecting sediment carried by the Mississippi River to rebuild the state’s vanishing coast. However, a study out of Tulane says the diversions will produce new land, but not fast enough. Lead author of the report Elizabeth Chamberlain

Cut 13 (05)  “right now”

Cut 20 (07) “this situation”

Louisiana is bracing for the threat of severe weather today and tomorrow. Don Molino has more from the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness…

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Don Molino”

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The House Judiciary committee failed to advance a bill that would have created an oversight committee for the state’s 41 District Attorneys. Jim Shannon has more.

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jim Shannon”

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The state has activated its Crisis Action Team, because of the threat of severe weather today and tomorrow. Northwest Louisiana is under a tornado watch until 10 PM tonight. GOHSEP spokesman Mike Steele says the eastern portion of the state could see as much as 6 inches between now and tomorrow night…

Cut 3 (06) “heavy rains”

Torrential downpours could result in flooded roadways. Steele says if the water is high on the roadway, turn around…

Cut 4 (06) “flooded roadways.”

There are several outdoor activities this weekend, including the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival and the French Quarter Fest in New Orleans. Steele says it’s important those attending keep an eye on rapidly changing weather…

Cut 5  (09) “the state.”

Flash flood watches are in effect for northeast and southeast Louisiana through Saturday night.

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The House Judiciary Committee failed to advance a bill that would have created an oversight committee for the state’s 41 district attorneys. Nearly every one of the state’s D.A.’s were in attendance this morning as the panel debated the issue for two hours. Heated arguments between lawmakers and those in favor of the bill. Ruston Representative Rob Shadoin.

Cut 6 (07)  “alright.”

Pete Adams represents the district attorneys association. He says the bill itself is flawed.

Cut 7 (12)  “a nail.”

Sarah Mojoula testified on behalf of the Southern Poverty Law Center expressed support for the legislation, because it would make sure there wouldn’t be any misconduct

Cut 8 (09) “public defenders.”

The bill is done for this session.

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Shreveport Police have a man in custody following Thursday’s domestic situation in which the victim, 27-year-old Rannita Williams, was shot and killed on Facebook live. The video shows the shadow of 36-year-old Johnathan Robinson pacing back and forth holding a gun in the video. Police Chief Alan Crump says it was a very tense situation…

Cut 9 (13) “scene in”

Crump says Robinson is facing second-degree-murder and felon in possession of a firearm charges. After Robinson was put in custody at the Shreveport city jail, Crump says he became violent again, breaking a water pipe, flooding his  jail cell…

Cut 10 (11) “subdue him.”

Crump has been criticized about the amount of officers that responded. He said the dangerous situation made it necessary to show up in force…

Cut 11 (11) “was necessary.”

One officer, Cpl. Robert Entrekin sustained non-life threatening injuries to his wrist.

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The police officer who shot and killed Alton Sterling during a struggle has appealed his firing. Attorney John McLindon filed the appeal o a local civil service board on behalf of Blane Salamoni who shot Sterling nearly two years ago. McLindon says Salamoni wants to clear his name

Cut 12 (:12)   “being fired”

Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul said two weeks ago that Salamoni was fired because he violated policies on use of force and command of temper. McLindon anticipates a hearing on the appeal this summer

Cut 13 (11) “tell the whole story”

By getting the termination thrown out, it opens up the opportunity for Salamoni to become a police officer again in another jurisdiction.  McLindon says he’s heard from police officers around the country that Salamoni’s firing was unjust

Cut 14 (11)   “done this”

The fiscal cliff is smaller, as the state’s Revenue Estimating Conference has lowered the budget shortfall from 994-million to 648-million-dollars. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Legislation that would prohibit smoking inside bars and casinos statewide failed to get out of the House Health and Welfare Committee today. Jim Shannon has more..

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jim Shannon”

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Winn Parish Sheriff’s deputies were met with gun fire when they were trying to serve a civil warrant in the small community of the Chee Chee Dam area yesterday afternoon. 71-year-old Betty Lemoine was killed by deputies who had just driven up to their home. State Police is also investigating, Trooper Scott Moreau.

Cut 3 (:13) “With fire arms”

Moreau say her son 50 year old Kendall Lemoine was the target of the civil arrest warrant, he was seriously injured as well.

Cut 4 (12) “critical condition.”

No deputies were injured.

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The revenue shortfall the state is facing has declined from 994-million-dollars to 648-million-dollars, as a result of the state collecting more income taxes due to the federal tax overhaul. House Speaker Taylor Barras says the extra money would likely go for higher education and the TOPS program…

Cut 5  (13) “dollar range.”

But based on this new revenue projection, the state would still have to make 648-million dollars in cuts, unless another special session is called to address the shortfall.  Barras says he’s not committed to a special session yet, he wants to see what the budget looks like when it’s approved by the House next week…

Cut 6 (10)  “pass it.”

Barras says the Appropriations Committee is set to vote on a budget that will contain 648-million dollars in cuts on Monday and then the full House could vote on the spending plan next Thursday…

Cut 7 (07)  “next Thursday.”

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For the second time in the last five months, an Acadiana area family has claimed a  Powerball jackpot. A tax attorney representing the Moore Family Trust out of Lafayette brought their 56-million dollar ticket from the March 24th drawing to Louisiana Lottery headquarters. Lottery spokesperson Kim Chopin says on what the family plans do their with their winnings…

Cut 8 (10) “as well.”

Chopin says the couple has been playing the lottery for years, buying their tickets at Tigers Touchdown 2 in Lafayette. She says tax attorney Russell Stutes says the winning family is deserving of their new found fortune…

Cut 9 (08) “their lives”

This is the 17th Powerball jackpot ticket sold in Louisiana since the state joined the multistate game in 1995. Chopin says Lady Luck has recently shined twice in Acadiana as a St. Landry Parish couple won a prize last fall…

Cut 10 (07) “that area”

The latest winners received over 23-million-dollars after state and federal tax withholdings.

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The House Health and Welfare committee heard hours of testimony on a statewide smoking ban that would include casino’s and bars. The bill by Opelousas Democrat Dustin Miller was voluntarily yanked, so he can work on the language of the measure. If passed it would virtually ban smoking in just about every public building in the state. Wade Duty represents casinos.

Cut 11 (:09) “the water”

Brent Rochon is a cardiologist who testified in favor of the measure.

Cut 12 (:10)   “the smoke”

Lobbyist Alton Ashy says this legislation will have a negative impact of video poker halls…

Cut 13 (10) “your decision”

Reagan Carter is a member of the Louisiana Public Health coalition who supports the  bill.

Cut 14 (11)   “step outside”

Miller says he will bring the bill back in two weeks.

In Washington House Speaker Paul Ryan’s announcement that he will not seek re-election has sparked debate over who will run. Jim Shannon has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jim Shannon”

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Legislation to legalize fantasy sports betting in Louisiana is heading to the House floor. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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In Washington the announcement of House Speaker Paul Ryan’s, R-Wisconsin, decision not to seek re-election has sparked debate over who might be the next Speaker. New Orleans area Congressman Steve Scalise’s is considered a strong candidate. Political analyst Clancy DuBos says Scalise has as good a chance as anyone.

Cut 3 (:12) “Paul Ryan”

DuBos says if it were up to President Trump, Salise would have the job.

Cut 4 (10) “will decide.”

He adds that Louisiana would benefit greatly if Scalise is House Speaker.

Cut 5  (10) “house speaker”

The Republicans have to maintain control of the House for Scalise to have any chance. The election is in November. Scalise told the Associated Press that now is not the time for people to talk about what titles they want.

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Senator John Kennedy wants to hold Facebook and it’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg accountable for any breach in privacy. He is testifying before House Energy and Commerce Committee about a data breach affecting as many as 87-million Facebook users by a data firm with ties to President Trump’s campaign.   Kennedy says any trust that users placed in Facebook is no more after this incident…

Cut 6 (12)  “western hemisphere.”

Even though Facebook is being used as an avenue for many to get news and information, Kennedy feels Facebook pushes it’s own political agenda…

Cut 7 (12)  “completely neutral.”

Kennedy hopes that Zuckerberg will be held accountable for what he allows to be put on Facebook, good or bad…

Cut 8 (11) “Facebook punchbowl.”

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The House Criminal Justice Committee approves legislation that would allow fantasy sports players in Louisiana to collect winnings if they win contests hosted by third party groups like Fan Duel and Draft Kings. Gretna Representative Joseph Marino says each parish will have a chance to decide if they want to authorize fantasy sports gambling

Cut 9 (11) “its allowed”

If the bill is approved, Louisiana could tax businesses that organize fantasy sports contests. And the bill’s author, Kirk Talbot gave fellow Representative Barbara Norton advice, if she decides to draft a fantasy sports team….

Cut 10 (12) “you get”

The measure passed on a 10-4 vote. It has Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle’s support…

Cut 11 (09) “from them”

Louisiana Baptist office spokesperson Doctor Will Hall says legalizing fantasy sports betting is an expansion of gambling and it will create more problem gamblers….

Cut 12 (12)   “problem gambling”

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The House Criminal Justice Committee voted down a bill seeking to end the death penalty in Louisiana. Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews says there needs to be severe consequences for first-degree murder and raping children under the age of 13….

Cut 13 (10) “be expected”

New Iberia Representative Terry Landry marched a dozen religious groups to testify in favor of his bill,. which was debated for two hours.

Cut 14 (08)   “tough decisions”

Crews didn’t agree with Landry’s bill no matter how many groups testified.

Cut 15 (11) “that are taken”

A similar bill is still alive in the senate, but if approved by the upper chamber, it would go before the same committee in the House.

A bill to allow riverboat casinos to expand gaming operations on to land has been waiting for a vote on the Senate floor, but could get a vote today. Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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The number of eligible graduates in Louisiana achieving TOPS reaches an all time high.    Kelley Ray has more.

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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18 year olds will still be able to purchase assault rifles in Louisiana.  Michael Farrar has more.

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Michael Farrar.”

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A bill to allow the state’s 15 licensed riverboats casinos to expand their gaming operations on to land and change the rules regarding gaming space has been sitting on the Senate floor for over two weeks, but a vote in the upper chamber could happen today. Senator Troy Carter says many senators are concerned about the numerous pieces of legislation that seek to expand gambling…

Cut 4  (07) “sports betting” 

But the author of the bill, Lake Charles Senator, Ronnie Johns says requiring riverboats to only conduct gambling on water prohibits these facilities from making a substantial investment in their properties….

Cut 5  (07)  “over water.”

Black lawmakers in the Senate are also not happy that earlier in the session the upper chamber voted against a proposal to raise the minimum wage. Carter says instead of providing a living wage, many low income workers are forced to rely on casinos to provide for their families.

Cut 6 (09) “the jackpot..”

Black legislators have also raised concerns that casinos fail to contract with enough minority-owned firms and they also believe there’s a lack of minorities in management at the gambling halls. Johns says he’s had good dialogue with concerned legislators

Cut 7 (09)  “passing this.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards and state Health Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee unveiled a report on the economic impact of Medicaid expansion. Edwards says according to the LSU report, Louisiana is saving 317-million dollars in state money and providing medical care to those who can’t afford it…

Cut 8 (08)  “the state.”

Governor Edwards says many who have recently diagnosed with cancer, are able to receive medical care with expansion…

Cut 9 (10)  “too late.”

The report says Medicaid expansion through the infusion of one-point-eight billion dollars in federal dollars has created over 19-thousand jobs in the health care sector, resulting in  nearly three-point-six-billion-dollars in economic activity. Dr. Gee says healthy people are important to the state’s economy. She says if you’re sick, you’re not a productive person…

Cut 10 (07) “can work.”

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The number of eligible graduates in Louisiana achieving TOPS reaches an all time high. More than 19,200 senior high school students qualified for at least one scholarship, up from 18,373 in 2016. Superintendent for the Office of Student Opportunities Ken Bradford says there’s a new college high school option for students to give them a head start…

Cut 11 (11) “focused diploma.”

But there is a problem for TOPS candidates. Bradford says if TOPS funding is cut due to a  one-billion-dollar budget shortfall, a lot of high school students hoping for a scholarship may be disappointed…

Cut 12 (10) “be available.”

Bradford says many graduating seniors are ready to attend a college or unviersity, the hope is that they can afford it…

Cut 13 (09)  “workstudy grants.”